Finance Controller

Job Title: Finance Controller Department: Finance Reports To: Managing Director / Chief Financial Officer (CFO) / General Manager Location: Gauteng

Job Purpose

The Finance Controller is responsible for overseeing all financial and accounting activities of the company, ensuring accurate financial reporting, compliance with statutory requirements, effective financial controls, budgeting, cash flow management, and supporting strategic business decisions. The role plays a key part in maintaining the financial health and sustainability of the organization.

Key Responsibilities:Financial Management

• Oversee the day-to-day financial operations of the company.
• Ensure accurate and timely preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Monitor company financial performance and provide management with financial insights and recommendations.
• Develop and maintain effective financial controls and procedures.
• Manage cash flow to ensure sufficient funds are available for operational requirements.

Budgeting and Forecasting

• Prepare annual budgets and financial forecasts.
• Monitor actual performance against budget and investigate variances.
• Provide regular financial reports and recommendations to management.
• Assist management in strategic planning and financial decision-making.

Accounting and Reporting

• Ensure accurate maintenance of accounting records and general ledger accounts.
• Review and approve journal entries, reconciliations, and financial transactions.
• Prepare management accounts and financial reports.
• Ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards and company policies.

Tax and Statutory Compliance

• Ensure timely submission of VAT, PAYE, UIF, SDL, and other statutory returns.
• Liaise with external auditors, tax consultants, and regulatory authorities.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant financial legislation and regulations.
• Manage annual audits and implement audit recommendations.

Debtors and Creditors Management

• Monitor accounts receivable and payable.
• Ensure effective debt collection processes are implemented.
• Review and approve supplier payments.
• Monitor customer credit limits and financial risks.

Internal Controls and Risk Management

• Establish and maintain internal financial controls.
• Identify financial risks and recommend mitigation measures.
• Ensure proper authorization and safeguarding of company assets.
• Conduct periodic reviews of financial processes and controls.

Inventory and Cost Control

• Monitor stock valuation and inventory controls.
• Ensure accurate recording and reconciliation of inventory transactions.
• Analyze product costing, margins, and profitability.
• Assist with stock counts and inventory audits where required.

Team Leadership

• Manage and supervise finance and accounting staff.
• Provide coaching, training, and performance management.
• Allocate responsibilities and ensure efficient workflow within the finance department.
• Foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Minimum Requirements

Education

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, Commerce, or related field.
• Professional qualifications such as CA(SA), CIMA, ACCA, or SAIPA will be advantageous.

Experience

• Minimum 1–2 years' experience in accounting, finance, bookkeeping, or a similar financial role.
• Experience in wholesale, retail, distribution, or the building materials industry will be advantageous.
• Experience with financial reporting, budgeting, creditors, debtors, and reconciliations will be advantageous.
• Experience using accounting software and Microsoft Excel.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong knowledge of accounting principles and financial regulations.
• Advanced financial analysis and reporting skills.
• Excellent knowledge of VAT, PAYE, UIF, SDL, and South African labour-related financial legislation.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Experience with accounting and ERP systems.
• Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.

Work Location: In person